Desktop Virtualization

Come check out our virtual computing lab located in the new science center! SCA106

A premier Jesuit college requires a premier campus computing environment. In January 2012, Le Moyne began the shift to Windows and Microsoft Office 2010 through a new and more reliable technology called "Virtual Desktops." During the first phase of the project this technology was installed in Le Moyne's brand new Science Center. Pictured above you can see the virtual computing lab that takes advantage of the new environement as well as new equipment called thin clients. In addition to the lab, all of the classrooms in both of the science centers are equipped with thin clients in the teaching stations that access the virtual desktop environment.

Throughout the second phase of the project we worked to convert all of the computer labs and classrooms on campus to the virtual desktop environment. We were able to utilize existing equipment in most spaces, extending the life of the workstations that we had available to us. The existing computers that were configured to access the virtual desktop environment are called thick clients. We began departmental discussions about the new technology in order to prepare for their transition to this new environment. The second phase of the project was completed in August 2012. Currently we are in phase three of the project and we are continuing to hold discussions with campus departments to continue the transition of the entire campus.

In addition to the academic spaces, virtual desktops are being utilized across campus in a variety of different ways. The Admissions Office is using laptops to access virtual desktops in order to process applications when they are not in the office, Student Life as well as Security are using iPads for disaster preparedness, Institutional Advancement is testing out the use of their Raiser's Edge software on iPads, and Security is also using iPads for their security cameras as well as their door access systems. Three computer science classes as well as one MIS class are using virtual desktops to allow the students to use the software that they need for these classes from their own computers giving them increased flexibility. The impact that we have seen from the implementation of this technology has been positive. We plan to continue identifying areas on campus that would benefit from this technology and grant access to it accordingly. Please take a look at our Project Plan page to see how we are progressing forward.

What exactly is Desktop Virtualization?

Imagine your desktop in a cloud, able to follow you anywhere you go. With virtual desktops, there is no physical need for a computer. You can use any computer or mobile device and gain access to all of your desktop files. Virtual desktops greatly expand the possibilities for teaching, learning, research and all of the computer-based work we do across our campus. Click on the "Benefits" Tab to learn more. The actual move to Windows and Microsoft Office 2010 will only require a quick change to your existing computer. Click on the "Project Plan" tab for the schedule, and please join us at one of our open sessions, listed under the "Events" tab, to discuss the future of our campus computing environment.

Testimonials

I think that the virtual desktop is the direction to go and it has worked well for both CSC445 and MIS 335 this semester. Students can install the clients of virtual desktop in their own computers, including laptops. It is really convenient for students and me.

CS students particularly embrace it well. It seems that they are more likely to have laptops with them than IS students.